Hiking and Bushwalks in Bangadilly National Park

Bangadilly National Park, located 20 kilometres from Bowral in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales at Canyonleigh, offers a mix of bushwalks, hikes, and all trails suited to independent adventurers. While it is easily accessible from Bowral, the park is relatively unvisited, giving walkers a chance to explore without crowds and enjoy quiet moments in nature.

The park is ideal for hikers comfortable navigating firetrails and unmarked tracks with a good map in hand. These walks lead to scenic lookouts, picnic spots, and excellent opportunities for wildlife photography and birdwatching. As you move through the park, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Wingecarribee River valley and keep an eye out for native wildlife. Platypus are occasionally spotted along the riverbanks, koalas rest in forest gums, and peregrine falcons soar across the sky.

Vegetation in Bangadilly National Park is diverse and impressive. Dry ridges and slopes are lined with open forests and woodlands, while sheltered valleys and riverbanks support forests of red stringbark, brittle gum, apple box, and river peppermint. The park’s mix of Sydney Basin and Tablelands flora offers a distinctive landscape, with plateau country bounded by steep escarpments and rocky gullies. Mount Penang and other rocky outcrops at the ends of ridges provide some of the best perspectives over the Wingecarribee River valley.

Bangadilly National Park is also rich in wildlife. Arboreal mammals such as koalas, greater gliders, and sugar gliders are commonly seen, while the river is home to platypus. Birdwatchers and nocturnal observers may spot glossy black cockatoos, spotted-tailed quolls, large-eared pied bats, and various raptors. This combination of varied terrain, scenic outlooks, and wildlife makes the park a rewarding destination for those seeking a mix of walks, hikes, and all trails experiences.

The park lies within the traditional lands of the Gundungurra Aboriginal People, whose territory stretches from Lithgow to Goulburn. Other groups with historical associations include the Dharug to the north, Dharawal to the east, and Wiradjuri to the west. The Wingecarribee River valley, with its permanent water source and rich plant and animal life, was likely an important area for living and travel. The junction of the Wingecarribee and Wollondilly rivers downstream of the park is also noted in Aboriginal mythology.

Want to find the best trails in Bangadilly National Park for an adventurous hike, casual walk, or a family trip? Trail Hiking Australia has the best trails for walking, hiking, running, and more.